private acquisition
We have been buying New York's finest jewelry since 1931.
Signed pieces, important diamonds, and estate jewelry of distinction. Every evaluation is private, considered, and on your timeline.
For nearly a century, families, collectors, and the trade have brought their most important pieces to us. Some are parting with an heirloom. Some are settling an estate. Some are collectors making room for what comes next. We treat every one the same way: with discretion, patience, and a fair valuation from a trained eye.
What we acquire
Signed jewelry
Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Tiffany & Co., Harry Winston, Boucheron, Buccellati, and other signed houses. Provenance matters, and we know how to read it.
Important diamonds
Certified stones of two carats and above, fancy colors, and antique cuts. Bring the certificate if you have it. If you do not, we will assess the stone ourselves.
Estate & Period PIeces
Art Deco, Belle Époque, Edwardian, Retro, and Mid-Century jewelry. The pieces with a history are the ones we know best.
share your piece
1: Inquiry
Share a few photographs and what you know through our private form, or call to speak with a specialist directly. If you prefer, we will send you an appraisal kit with everything you need to mail your piece to us safely.
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A Specialist's eye
2: Initial review
A specialist reviews what you have sent and responds with an indicative range, usually within one business day. There is no charge, and no obligation.
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IN PERSON, OR BY INSURED MAIL
3: Evaluation
In person at our New York atelier, or by fully insured mail at our expense. The moment your piece arrives, we confirm receipt and insure it under our policy. You are covered at every step.
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A firm offer in writing
4: OFFER & Return
A firm offer, in writing. Should you accept, payment follows immediately by check. Should you decline, we return your piece by insured mail, at no cost. The decision is always yours.
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Why families have trusted us since 1931
We have handled the jewelry of three generations of New York families. We have seen what holds value and what does not, what is signed and what only claims to be, what a stone is worth in any market. That knowledge is the difference between a number and a fair price.
Our gemologists are formally trained, and they regard the evaluation of a piece as a craft in its own right. Nothing here is automated; no instant calculator decides what your jewelry is worth. This is the way it has been done at Empire Diamond for nearly a hundred years.